Hg ANALYZER

AA

AA

Uncompromising mercury determinations

The Varian VGA-76 and VGA-77 Vapor Generation Accessories

have long been the industry standard for low level mercury
determinations. First introduced in 1984, these systems have
enabled fully automated parts per billion (ppb)
determinations of mercury using the proven
cold vapor technique. Due to the high toxicity
of mercury compounds formed in the
environment, regulatory bodies and
environmental protection authorities are today
requiring determinations of mercury at ultra trace
levels.
Now Varian has introduced the M-6000A
Mercury Analyzer, manufactured by CETAC
Technologies, which offers exceptional
performance guaranteed to satisfy the most stringent
worldwide requirements.
Only the M-6000A is flexible enough to
accommodate the needs of any laboratory,
with key benefits including:
High sample throughput

Excellent baseline stability

High sensitivity with a 1 ppt detection limit
Excellent short and long term precisions
Unsurpassed signal-to-noise performance
Large dynamic range
Non-foaming gas-liquid separator which minimizes memory
effects

Hot Start stand-by mode enabling fast start-up

Sample and reference cells which can be removed quickly
and easily for maintenance

Varians unique worksheet based software, which provides

a level of simplicity ideally suited to todays busy laboratory

Automated operation with software control of all parameters

The CETAC M-6000A can be packaged with any of Varian's
range of AA spectrometers and accessories. With our worldwide
sales and support network, we can provide the total solution to any
laboratorys mercury determination requirements.
1

Hg ANALYZER

M-6000A Mercury Analyzer

Unmatched Performance
The M-6000A is the most stable and
sensitive absorbance based mercury analyzer
available. Using regulatory approved cold
vapor methodology, it provides detection limits
which in the past were only achievable using
fluorescence techniques.
Detection limits as low as 0.001 g/L (1 part
per trillion (ppt)) are routinely obtained.
Several proprietary technology advances,
aimed specifically at reducing noise, make this
possible, including:
A mercury source lamp which is
mounted in a thermostatted aluminium
block to ensure stability

Unique triple beam optics provide

sample and reference beams with a
third beam for the unique ElectroOptical Feedback Module (EOFM)

The EOFM which continuously monitors

and controls the output of the high
intensity mercury source lamp,
maintaining constant intensity
throughout the life of the lamp

The thermally stabilized mercury lamp

which is combined with the unique triple
beam optics design and the EOFM to
guarantee excellent baseline stability
and unsurpassed signal-to-noise
performance

The binocular camera detector

featuring ultra stable, low noise solid
state photo-voltaic detectors. This
collects the transmitted energy and
converts it to a raw analog signal. The
signal processing electronics are built
into the base of the detectors,
immediately digitizing the signal. This
eliminates noise pick-up from
extraneous analog signals, as may
occur with other designs

The elimination of background

absorbance by water vapor in the gas
phase by the use of a drying tube.
The M-6000A is fully automated and offers
high sensitivity with low detection limits or high
sample throughput. By providing full software
control over key operating parameters such as
the gas flows and the pump speed, the M6000A provides the user with complete
flexibility in balancing the need for high
sensitivity against that for high sample
throughput. An effective dynamic range of 1
million (106) can be achieved by selecting
different operating parameters.

The sample is mixed with stannous

chloride reductant and directed over the
central ground glass column of the gasliquid separator. The gas-liquid
separator has a very high surface to
volume ratio, providing highly efficient
transfer of the mercury vapor into the
carrier gas. This design also minimizes
foaming when difficult samples such as
clinical or biological samples are
analyzed
2

Superior Productivity
Todays laboratory has to handle an ever
increasing sample workload, comply with strict
regulatory requirements and adapt to
constantly changing customer needs. With all
of these demands, instrumentation must
efficiently handle large sample workloads, and
consistently deliver accurate and cost-effective
mercury determinations.
The M-6000A is the only system which
delivers all of these benefits:
High sample throughputup to 3
samples/minute or 180 samples/hour in
high throughput mode

Fast wash-out between samples, even

at high sample workloads, ensuring
good baseline separation and minimal
carryover between samples

Excellent reproducibility ensuring good

short term precision for accurate results

Long term stable performance and

excellent long term precision is assured
by the stable baseline - the result of the
unique triple beam optics design and
the thermally stabilized mercury source
lamp

Large dynamic range, allowing you to

handle samples from low ppt to high
ppb levels in the one run, without risk of
contamination or memory effects

Difficult biological and clinical samples

which are prone to foaming can be
handled with ease, thanks to the nonfoaming gas-liquid separator.

Large sample capacity with the

integrated autosampler,
accommodating up to 360 samples with
separate positions for up to 10
standards (including blank)

Hot Start standby mode, allowing the

analyzer to be fully running in < 5
minutes, delivering the highest up-time
and the smallest set-up times. A Warm
Start standby mode is also provided
which minimizes inert gas consumption

Repeated determinations of 2.0 g/L Hg, demonstrating

excellent reproducibility and high sample throughput

Fully automated operation with software

control of gas flows, pump speed and
autosampler.
Typical signal for 0.05 g/L Hg (50 ppt)

3 simple steps to analysis

1 Recall the template
2 Enter the sample labels
3 Start the analysis

Ease-Of-Ownership

Start-Up

The Worksheet Mercury Analyzer

This system has been designed with easeof-ownership in more than just the software.
Laboratories with high daily sample throughput
need a system that offers the maximum uptime.
The M-6000A's Hot Start mode has the
system running in less than 5 minutes, ensuring
you spend more time analyzing samples and
less time waiting for the system to stabilize.

The M-6000A is controlled by a Windows

based graphical interface featuring Varians
proven worksheet concept. This has been
designed for the multi-user laboratory where
the need for an easy-to-use yet flexible
interface is paramount.
Our worksheet based system allows the
supervisor to create templates, which ensures
the minimum set-up. Once created, only 3
simple steps need to be completed before
commencing analyses. All other method
parameters, including any QC tests required,
can be preselected, and if required, password
protected.

Maintenance
Routine maintenance has also been
simplified. All items likely to need maintenance
are positioned at the front of the instrument for
quick and easy access. Should the sample or
reference cells need cleaning, these can be
quickly removed. Sapphire end windows are
fitted, reducing the risk of scratching and the
thick walled cells allow easy handling. The
unique optical design eliminates the need for
optical alignment after cell replacement. The
software even tracks the life of the mercury
lamp so you know precisely when replacement
will be necessary, minimizing downtime.
After Sales Support
Varians extensive network of sales and
service offices are proud to offer this innovative
high sensitivity Mercury Analyzer. Varians
global team can provide the cost effective after
sales support that you expect - with everything
from applications support and technical advice
to preventative maintenance, service back-up
and repairs. And by purchasing from Varian, we
can offer you a complete solution to all of your
elemental analysis needs by packaging the
M-6000-A with our own world renowned
SpectrAA (AAS), Liberty (ICP-ES), UltraMass
(ICP-MS) or Cary (UV/Vis/NIR) spectrometers.

Final results are displayed in easy to read columns in

the worksheet making the M-6000A the easiest-touse system on the market.

Inside the M-6000A

The 'Electro-Optical
Feedback Module'
monitors and controls
the intensity of the Hg
lamp to maintain stable
output, minimizing noise

Drift and noise levels are

reduced by thermally
stabilizing the high
intensity Hg lamp

Lamp controller

The thermostatted thick

walled sample and
reference cells minimize
optical drift

Carrier gas inlet

Triple beam optics
provide a second
reference beam for the
unique 'Electro-Optical
Feedback Module'

Choice of operational
modes providing either
high sensitivity/low
detection limits or high
sample throughput (up to
180 samples/hour)

Lamp current
Hg Trap

Reference cell
Specialized aperture
masks minimize optical
drift by eliminating
internal cell reflections

Sample cell

Dry Hg
vapor

Auto sampler

Drying tube
SnCl2

Liquid mix

The binocular camera

detector features solid
state detectors for rapid,
uniform response and
accurate detection of
even the smallest
absorbance signal

Peristaltic pump
Integral ballast tanks
provide pulseless gas
flow, minimizing noise
and providing insurance
against liquid
contamination of the cells

Drain

Ballast tank
Gas inlet
Efficient liberation of the
mercury vapor from the
liquid mixture ensures
high sensitivity and
foamless sample
introduction

Gas-liquid separator

Fast washout between

samples with < 3 min
recovery from 1 mg/L
solution, minimizing
memory effects.
Advanced digital signal
processing techniques
ensure superior low
noise performance

Between 853-2133 metres altitude, 10-25 C

8-80% relative humidity, non-condensing.

Specifications for the M-6000A Automated Mercury Analyzer

Gas Requirements

Sample Uptake Rate

4.05.0 mL/min

Either N2 or Ar carrier gas required within

pressure range from 620-830 kPa (90-120 psi)
Required flow rates within range from 30350 mL/min.99.99% pure N2 preferred.

Temperature Range for Oven

0130 C (used to thermostat the sample and
reference cells). Recommended setting:125 C
Integral ASX-500 Random Access
Autosampler
Standard tray size:
10 X 50 mL standards
Optional sample racks available:
90 X 13 mm OD tubes
60 X 16 mm OD tubes
40 X 20 mm OD tubes
24 X 25 mm OD tubes
21 X 30 mm OD tubes

Power Requirements
100130 VAC 10% Version 50/60 Hz 10%,
2.5 A, 780 W
205240 VAC 10% Version 50/60 Hz 10%,
1.5 A, 780 W
Fume Extraction
Optional - Hg vapors are absorbed by a Hg
trap (KMnO4) before the carrier gas is vented
Certification
The M-6000A is certified to comply with the
requirements of EU directives: LVD-BS EN
61010-1:1993, EMC-BS EN55011:1991,
BS EN 50081-1:1992, BS EN 50082-1:1992,
IEC 801-2:1991, IEC 801-3:1984, 801-4:1988

Complete System
Minimum computer requirements:
IBM compatible 486 DX2/50 Mhz with built in
maths co-processor, EISA bus, 8 MB RAM 200
MB hard disk 1 x 3.5 inch 1.44 MB floppy disk
drive, 2 serial/1 printer parallel ports, 101
keyboard and mouse, Super VGA monitor
supporting 800 x 600 resolution with local bus
accelerated Super VGA card, Microsoft
Windows Operating System Version 3.11.
Computer not supplied with M-6000A.

Ordering Information
M-6000A Automated Mercury Analyzer
100-130 VAC operation
00 100629 00
205-240 VAC operation
00 100630 00
Optional Sample Racks for Integral ASX-500
Autosampler
90 X 13 mm OD tubes
99 100894 00
60 X 16 mm OD tubes
99 100893 00
40 X 20 mm OD tubes
99 100892 00
24 X 25 mm OD tubes
99 100891 00
21 X 30 mm OD tubes
99 100890 00

Computer Interface
RS 232 C (requires 2 free COM ports)
Dimensions (W x H x D)
52 x 73 x 60 cms
(21 x 29.5 x 24 inches)
Shipping Weight
17.2 kg (60 lbs) including autosampler

Recommended Spares and Consumables

Gas-liquid separator
20 100842 00
Glass ballast tank
20 100843 00
Hg source lamp
56 101330 00
Replacement absorption cell 66 100169 00
Sapphire end windows
66 100170 00
for absorption cell
Liquid/Pump tubing kit
99 100869 00
Foam tipped swabs
99 100871 00
(recommended for cleaning cell windows)

The M-6000A Mercury Analyzer is

manufactured by CETAC Technologies and
distributed and supported by Varian.
Environmental conditions
Instrument storage: 5-45 C at 20-80%
relative humidity, non-condensing.
Instrument operation: Below 853 metres
altitude, 10-35 C 8-80% relative humidity, noncondensing.

Manufacturing facilities Varian Australia Pty Ltd, 679 Springvale Road, Mulgrave, Victoria, Australia Tel (3) 9560 71 33 Fax (3) 9560 79 50
Sales offices: Australia Mulgrave, Victoria Tel (3) 9566 1134 Austria Vsendorf bei Wien Tel (1) 69 99 669 Belgium Tel (0) 70 222 722
Brazil Sao Paulo Tel (11) 820 0444Canada Mississauga, Ontario Tel 1 800 387 2216 or (905) 819 8181 Europe (other) Zug, Switzerland
Tel (41) 749 88 44France Les Ulis Cdex Tel (1) 69 86 3838 Germany Darmstadt Tel (6151) 70 3 362 Italy Torino Tel (11) 997 9319
Japan Tokyo Tel (3) 52321239 Korea Kangnam Gu, Tel (2) 345 22452 Mexico Mexico City, Tel (5) 533 5985
Netherlands Bergen op Zoom Tel (0164) 282800 Russian Federation Moscow Tel ( 095) 9374280South America Sao Paulo Tel (11) 820 0444
Spain Madrid Tel (91) 472 7612 Sweden Solna Tel (8) 445 1620 Switzerland ZugTel (41) 749 88 44 United Kingdom & Eire Walton-on-Thames
Tel (1932) 1932 898000 United States Walnut CreekTel 1 800 926 30 00 or (925) 939 2400. Visit Varian's World Wide Web page at
http://www.varianinc.comOther countries Varian Australia Pty Ltd, Australia Tel (3) 9560 71 33 Fax (3) 9560 79 50
Varian Australia 1996
Publication number 85 101511 00 6/99
Specifications are subject to change without notice